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Countries with the Highest Prosperity (Top 167)

Countries with the Highest Prosperity (Top 167)

Health & WellnessJuly 3, 2026

The concept of prosperity encompasses more than material wealth; it extends to genuine societal flourishing. A comprehensive assessment of well-being reveals that prosperity is not solely defined by GDP or stock market performance. It also includes public safety, access to healthcare, opportunities for entrepreneurship without excessive bureaucracy, and freedom of expression. The 2023 Legatum Prosperity Index was designed to measure these dimensions, and its findings are both significant and instructive.

The Legatum Prosperity Index, developed by the London-based Legatum Institute, ranks 167 countries across 12 pillars of prosperity: Safety & Security, Personal Freedom, Governance, Social Capital, Investment Environment, Enterprise Conditions, Market Access & Infrastructure, Economic Quality, Living Conditions, Healthcare, Education, and Natural Environment. Each country is evaluated using hundreds of indicators, and the composite score provides a more comprehensive perspective than any single economic metric. In 2023, Denmark led the index with a score of 84.55. The rankings demonstrate the significance of geography, governance, and social trust. Although the top countries are closely ranked, their differences are substantive and merit detailed examination.

This report analyzes the top 19 countries in the index individually, offering a comprehensive perspective on the multifaceted nature of prosperity.

1. Denmark — Score: 84.55 (Rank #1)

Denmark’s position at the top of the index is notable. With a population of approximately 5.9 million, Denmark is smaller than many major cities, yet it consistently outperforms nearly every other country in measures of well-being. Denmark achieved a score of 84.55, ranking as the most prosperous nation in 2023, a position it has maintained for several years. Its success is attributable to a combination of interconnected factors rather than a single determinant.

Denmark’s Personal Freedom score of 94.09 is among the highest globally. This outcome reflects generations of institution-building that protect civil liberties, foster acceptance of diversity, and enable individuals to live according to their preferences. Personal freedom is closely associated with innovation, entrepreneurship, mental health, and economic productivity. Empirical data indicate that societies with greater personal freedom often exhibit stronger economic performance.

The Living Conditions pillar for Denmark scored 95.77, a remarkable achievement. Danish citizens benefit from comfort, health, and robust social support. Denmark’s social safety net is among the most comprehensive globally, encompassing unemployment, healthcare, childcare, and elder care. While some critics contend that such systems may foster dependency, available evidence suggests otherwise. Danish workers consistently rank among the most productive and satisfied worldwide, demonstrating that high social support and productivity can coexist.

Denmark scored 84.55 on the 2023 Legatum Prosperity Index, ranking first among 167 countries.
Its Personal Freedom score of 94.09 is among the highest recorded in the index.
Denmark’s Living Conditions pillar scored 95.77, reflecting its world-class social support systems.
Safety & Security came in at 92.59, indicating that it is one of the safest societies on earth.
Governance scored 89.45, demonstrating deeply embedded democratic institutions and accountability.
Education scored 87.48, reflecting Denmark’s commitment to accessible, high-quality learning.
Since 2011, Denmark has moved up one place in the overall rankings, showing long-term consistency.
Denmark performs most strongly in Social Capital and Personal Freedom, and its biggest improvement over the last decade was in Health.

2. Sweden — Score: 83.67 (Rank #2)

Sweden closely follows Denmark with a score of 83.67. Although a difference of less than one point may seem negligible, in these rankings, each decimal is significant. Sweden is recognized for integrating economic openness with social solidarity, an approach that continues to yield positive outcomes. While no country achieves perfection, Sweden has established systems that benefit the majority of its population, a relatively uncommon accomplishment.

Sweden’s Living Conditions score is 95.33, almost the same as Denmark’s. Its Natural Environment score is 78.74, the highest among the top Nordic countries. Sweden has worked to balance industrial growth with environmental care, and this is reflected in its prosperity. The country’s investment in renewable energy also stands out. Environmental quality is an important part of daily life, not just a political topic.

A key component of Sweden’s prosperity is its Investment Environment score of 82.81, positioning it as a leading destination for business. Sweden attracts international investment and fosters local entrepreneurship while maintaining robust worker protections and public services. Achieving this balance is challenging, yet Sweden has managed it effectively.

Sweden scored 83.67, ranking 2nd most prosperous in the world in 2023.
Its Natural Environment pillar scored 78.74, the highest among the top four Nordic nations.
Sweden’s Living Conditions score of 95.33 reflects one of the world’s most supportive welfare systems.
The Investment Environment pillar scored 82.81, confirming Sweden as a premier business destination.
Personal Freedom came in at 91.90, underlining Sweden’s deep commitment to civil liberties.
Governance scored 86.41, reflecting effective democratic institutions and the rule of law.
Sweden’s Education pillar scored 85.92, reflecting strong outcomes across all levels of schooling.
Safety & Security scored 90.97, indicating that the population overwhelmingly feels protected and secure.

3. Norway — Score: 83.59 (Rank #3)

Norway achieved a score of 83.59 in 2023, ranking just behind Sweden. Norway’s development trajectory is distinctive among the Nordic countries. Previously considered a developing economy, Norway’s oil discovery significantly altered its economic trajectory. Unlike many other oil-rich nations, Norway allocated its oil revenues to the Government Pension Fund Global, prioritizing long-term savings over immediate expenditure. This strategic foresight has yielded enduring benefits. Norway’s Safety & Security score is 93.30, the highest among the top four countries, and its Personal Freedom score of 94.10 is nearly the same as Denmark’s. These results show a society with strong trust in its institutions, low corruption, and a belief in fairness. This level of trust is built over time through steady governance, transparency, and accountability.

Norway’s Healthcare score is 82.98, the highest among the Nordic countries, and its Governance score of 89.66 is the highest among the top-ranked nations. Norway is a strong example of effective governance. High trust in government here means active civic engagement, transparency, and a government that serves its people’s interests.

Norway scored 83.59, ranking 3rd on the 2023 Legatum Prosperity Index.
Its Safety & Security score of 93.30 is the highest among the top four Nordic nations.
Norway’s Personal Freedom score of 94.10 ties for the top position globally.
Governance scored 89.66, the highest of any country in the entire top tier.
Healthcare came in at 82.98, the best within the Nordic cluster and reflective of universal care quality.
The country’s Economic Quality pillar scored 77.25, backed by petroleum revenues managed with rare fiscal discipline.
Norway’s Investment Environment scored 82.24, demonstrating a healthy, open business climate.
Living Conditions scored 94.70, affirming Norway as one of the most comfortable places to live on earth.

4. Finland — Score: 83.47 (Rank #4)

Finland scored 83.47 in 2023, completing the Nordic countries’ representation in the top four. While this outcome may be anticipated by those familiar with global prosperity data, it remains noteworthy. Finland distinguishes itself through a strong emphasis on Education and Governance, surpassing its Nordic peers in these areas. Its Education score of 88.38 is the highest among the top four, contributing to the international reputation of Finnish schools as exemplary models.

Finland’s Governance score of 90.41 is the highest in the entire index. Governance includes the rule of law, democratic accountability, low corruption, and effective institutions, and Finland excels in all these areas. With over 5 million people, a complex economy, and a challenging history and geography, Finland’s strong governance is a real achievement.

Finland’s Investment Environment score of 84.12 is the highest among the top five, making it especially attractive for businesses. Its Natural Environment score of 77.99 shows a strong commitment to sustainability. In Finland, people can build businesses, raise families, and trust their government. This combination is both impressive and informative.

Finland scored 83.47, ranking 4th on the 2023 Legatum Prosperity Index.
Its Governance score of 90.41 is the highest of any country in the entire 2023 ranking.
Finland’s Education pillar scored 88.38, the best among all four top-ranked Nordic nations.
The Investment Environment scored 84.12, the strongest of any country in the global top five.
Personal Freedom came in at 91.96, keeping Finland firmly in the global top tier for civil liberties.
Safety & Security scored 89.56, reflecting a safe, low-crime, high-trust society.
Living Conditions scored 94.46, confirming Finland’s status as one of the world’s most livable nations.
Natural Environment scored 77.99, reflecting Finland’s stewardship of its extensive forests and clean waterways.

5. Switzerland — Score: 83.42 (Rank #5)

Switzerland scored 83.42, placing fifth, a position it has maintained within the global top five for at least five years. Switzerland’s approach to prosperity differs from the Nordic model. While Nordic countries emphasize generous welfare systems and high social trust, Switzerland is characterized by precision, diversity, and economic strength. With four official languages, a decentralized governance structure, and a commitment to quality, Switzerland distinguishes itself among prosperous nations.

Switzerland’s Safety & Security score is 95.66, the highest in the top 10. The country known for neutrality, watches, and alpine scenery is also the safest among the top-ranked nations. Its Enterprise Conditions score is 83.84, ranking first globally, and its Economic Quality score of 79.71 shows a diverse, high-value economy.

Switzerland’s Social Capital score is 69.14, the lowest in the top five. Social Capital includes civic engagement, trust, and community ties. Switzerland’s multicultural and individualistic society means these bonds are less strong than in the Nordics. This is a tradeoff for greater individual economic freedom, and the results are clear in its high Economic Quality score of 79.71, the best among the top five.

Switzerland scored 83.42, ranking 5th most prosperous globally in 2023.
Its Safety & Security score of 95.66 is the highest in the entire top 10 of the index.
Enterprise Conditions scored 83.84, ranking Switzerland first globally in that specific pillar.
Economic Quality came in at 79.71, the highest among the top five countries.
Switzerland’s Governance score of 87.67 reflects strict adherence to the rule of law and strong institutional quality.
Healthcare scored 82.11, consistent with Switzerland’s world-class medical infrastructure.
Education came in at 87.72, reflecting the quality of Swiss universities and vocational training.
Personal Freedom scored 87.50, somewhat lower than the Nordics but still comfortably in the world’s elite.

6. Netherlands — Score: 82.32 (Rank #6)

The Netherlands scored 82.32, ranking sixth. Although it may not always receive widespread recognition, the Netherlands has developed a densely populated, trade-oriented, and culturally open society that excels across multiple dimensions of prosperity. Its high ranking is the result of centuries of robust institutions and a cultural emphasis on pragmatism, tolerance, and diligence.

The Netherlands’ Living Conditions score is 95.86, the highest in the top 10, just above Denmark. This reflects high-quality housing, accessible services, and a strong standard of living. Its Enterprise Conditions score is 79.09, and its Market Access & Infrastructure score is 80.82, indicating how well the Dutch economy is connected to global trade. Rotterdam, Europe’s largest port, is a key part of this success.

The Netherlands also scored 90.08 in Personal Freedom, one of the highest worldwide, reflecting its strong tradition of civil liberties, press freedom, and social tolerance. Its Governance score of 87.34 puts it among the world’s best for institutional quality. The Netherlands combines elements of the Nordic welfare model and the Anglo-Saxon market model in a way that works well for its society.

The Netherlands scored 82.32, ranking 6th most prosperous in the world in 2023.
Its Living Conditions score of 95.86 is the highest among the top 10 globally.
Personal Freedom scored 90.08, placing the Netherlands among the world’s most civil-liberty-respecting nations.
Market Access & Infrastructure came in at 80.82, reflecting the Netherlands’ role as Europe’s leading trade hub.
Governance scored 87.34, confirming institutional quality and effective democratic governance.
Enterprise Conditions scored 79.09, showing a strong environment for business creation and growth.
Safety & Security came in at 91.19, making the Netherlands one of the safest countries on earth.
Investment Environment scored 84.11, tied with Finland for the highest among the top six nations.

7. Luxembourg — Score: 81.83 (Rank #7)

Luxembourg scored 81.83, ranking seventh. Despite its small population, Luxembourg’s performance is notable. It is the world’s second-largest investment fund center after the United States, and its economy consistently ranks among the highest in GDP per capita. The prosperity data confirm Luxembourg’s enduring economic strength.

Luxembourg’s Safety & Security score is 96.32, the highest in the entire index, even above Switzerland. This makes Luxembourg the safest major economy by this measure. Its Living Conditions score of 94.56 and Market Access & Infrastructure score of 80.03 show the benefits of long-term, stable wealth and strong infrastructure.

Luxembourg’s Social Capital score is 66.60, the lowest among the top 10 countries. This likely reflects its cosmopolitan and transient population, with many cross-border commuters and expatriates, which can weaken community ties. Given the mix of languages spoken in Luxembourg, this result is understandable.

Luxembourg scored 81.83, ranking 7th most prosperous globally in 2023.
Its Safety & Security score of 96.32 is the highest of any country in the entire 2023 Legatum Index.
Living Conditions came in at 94.56, reflecting Luxembourg’s extraordinary material standard of living.
Market Access & Infrastructure scored 80.03, consistent with Luxembourg’s role as a major financial center.
Personal Freedom scored 89.20, affirming civil liberties and legal protections in daily life.
Governance scored 86.31, placing Luxembourg firmly among the world’s best-governed nations.
Healthcare scored 81.59, reflecting world-class medical access and outcomes for residents.
Education scored 78.79, the lowest among the top seven nations but still comfortably above global averages.

8. Iceland — Score: 81.02 (Rank #8)

Iceland scored 81.02. Despite facing challenges such as the 2008 banking collapse, a global pandemic, and frequent volcanic activity, Iceland remains within the global top 10. With a population of just over 370,000, no standing army, and a remote location in the North Atlantic, Iceland has nonetheless established a highly prosperous society.

Iceland’s Living Conditions score of 93.82 shows a strong and effective welfare state. Its Safety & Security score of 91.64 and Governance score of 83.30 reflect institutions that have recovered from crises. After the 2008 financial collapse, Iceland let its banks fail, imposed capital controls, and prosecuted executives. While not every decision followed standard practice, Iceland’s solid governance helped the country recover.

Iceland’s Healthcare score of 82.72 reflects universal coverage and strong health outcomes. Its Education score is 85.19, and Personal Freedom is 88.74. Iceland is a small, resilient society that values quality of life. While it may not have the financial resources of Luxembourg or the global influence of Germany, it has high levels of trust among people and institutions. Its Social Capital score of 77.75 is among the highest in the top 10.

Iceland scored 81.02, ranking 8th most prosperous in the world in 2023.
Its Social Capital score of 77.75 is among the highest in the global top 10.
Safety & Security came in at 91.64, reflecting a famously low-crime, high-trust society.
Healthcare scored 82.72, consistent with universal coverage and strong health outcomes.
Education scored 85.19, reflecting high participation rates and quality public schooling.
Governance scored 83.30, underpinned by functional democratic institutions and low corruption.
Personal Freedom scored 88.74, confirming Iceland’s strong tradition of civil liberties and openness.
Living Conditions came in at 93.82, affirming Iceland’s high daily quality of life for residents.

9. Germany — Score: 80.81 (Rank #9)

Germany scored 80.81, ranking ninth. As the world’s fourth-largest economy, this is a major achievement. Unlike the smaller, more homogeneous Nordic countries, Germany is large, complex, and was divided until just over 30 years ago. There are still differences between the eastern and western regions, which makes the national score even more impressive.

Germany’s Living Conditions score of 94.42 is impressive for such a large country. Its Market Access & Infrastructure score of 80.23 reflects Germany’s well-known engineering and logistics strengths. Features such as the Autobahn, Rhine River ports, and Frankfurt Airport are important to its productivity. Enterprise Conditions scored 79.70, and Safety & Security scored 87.92, indicating a stable, advanced society.

Germany’s Social Capital score is 65.96, the lowest in the top 10. This may be due to its reserved culture, recent immigration, and ongoing differences between East and West. Germany’s Personal Freedom score is 87.70, and its Governance score is 84.39, indicating a strong liberal democracy. Germany demonstrates that a large, complex country can still achieve high prosperity, despite unique challenges.

Germany scored 80.81, ranking 9th most prosperous in the world in 2023.
Its Living Conditions score of 94.42 is extraordinary for a country with over 84 million people.
Market Access & Infrastructure came in at 80.23, reflecting Germany’s world-class logistics and transport systems.
Safety & Security scored 87.92, indicating a largely stable and safe civil society.
Governance scored 84.39, affirming the presence of functional democratic institutions and the rule of law.
Enterprise Conditions scored 79.70, reflecting a highly developed environment for business and industry.
Education scored 83.45, consistent with Germany’s globally recognized vocational and academic training systems.
Healthcare came in at 81.41, reflecting Germany’s universal healthcare model and high-quality medical outcomes.

10. New Zealand — Score: 80.47 (Rank #10)

New Zealand scored 80.47, securing a top-10 position with a distinct approach compared to the predominantly European countries on the list. As the only non-European nation in the top 10, New Zealand demonstrates that governance, openness, and social trust can drive prosperity. Its remote location, small population, and resource dependence have presented challenges, yet New Zealand has achieved notable success.

New Zealand’s Governance score is 87.19, one of the highest in the index, showing a clean, transparent, and accountable government. Its Social Capital score of 79.88 is the highest among the top 10, reflecting strong community spirit, volunteerism, and trust. Its Personal Freedom score of 87.56 also places it among the world’s best. New Zealand’s lower scores in Living Conditions (90.66) and Enterprise Conditions (72.82) limit its ranking. These reflect challenges like housing affordability, high trade costs due to isolation, and a small domestic market. Still, New Zealand’s top-10 ranking despite these obstacles is impressive and offers lessons for others.

New Zealand scored 80.47, ranking 10th most prosperous in the world in 2023, the only non-European nation in the top 10.
Its Social Capital score of 79.88 is the highest among the top 10 globally.
Governance scored 87.19, ranking it among the world’s cleanest and most accountable governments.
Personal Freedom came in at 87.56, placing New Zealand firmly in the global top tier for civil liberties.
Safety & Security scored 85.07, reflecting a generally safe, low-crime society.
Education scored 83.89, consistent with New Zealand’s strong public education system.
Investment Environment scored 82.58, among the highest in the top 10 and reflecting an open, accessible business climate.
Healthcare came in at 79.84, reflecting broadly accessible universal healthcare services across the country.

11. Ireland — Score: 80.31 (Rank #11)

Ireland scored 80.31, ranking 11th. Over the past four decades, Ireland has transformed from one of Europe’s poorest countries into a global technology hub with high per capita income. The prosperity data indicate that Ireland is thriving in numerous areas, though progress is not uniform across all dimensions.

Ireland’s Living Conditions score of 92.65 and Economic Quality score of 77.81 show the impact of foreign investment, especially in pharmaceuticals and technology. Its Safety & Security score of 90.97 ranks it among the safest countries, and its Personal Freedom score of 88.59 reflects Ireland’s shift from a conservative society to a more liberal and diverse one. The legalization of same-sex marriage in 2015 and abortion rights in 2018, both by referendum, highlight this change.

Ireland’s Governance score is 81.72, and its Education score is 85.00, showing a well-governed democracy with strong human capital. Its lower Social Capital score of 67.73 may be due to the rapid changes in the country, as community structures often need time to adjust.

Ireland scored 80.31, ranking 11th most prosperous in the world in 2023.
Its Safety & Security score of 90.97 places Ireland among the world’s top 15 safest nations.
Living Conditions scored 92.65, reflecting Ireland’s substantial gains in wealth and quality of life.
Personal Freedom came in at 88.59, reflecting Ireland’s dramatic social liberalization in recent decades.
Education scored 85.00, consistent with Ireland’s strong university system and high graduate rates.
Economic Quality scored 77.81, reflecting a technology- and pharmaceutical-driven high-income economy.
Governance scored 81.72, affirming a functional parliamentary democracy with strong accountability.
Investment Environment scored 80.43, reflecting Ireland’s attractiveness as a European hub for international business.

12. United Kingdom — Score: 79.95 (Rank #12)

The United Kingdom scored 79.95, ranking 12th. Despite recent challenges including Brexit, leadership transitions, and economic uncertainty, this represents a strong outcome. The UK remains among the world’s most prosperous countries, although the data indicate that certain advantages are currently under strain. The UK’s Living Conditions score of 94.16 is strong, matching Germany’s. Its Investment Environment score of 81.49 shows that the country remains open and well-regulated for business. London continues to be a major global center for finance, culture, and innovation, which is reflected in the data. The UK’s Personal Freedom score is 85.64, and Healthcare is 78.31, showing the broad reach of the National Health Service, even with some pressures.

The UK’s Social Capital score is 67.77, and Governance is 80.63, both lower than those of some countries ranked just above it. Recent political changes have affected these areas. However, the UK’s Education score of 84.81 and Safety & Security score of 87.63 indicate that its human capital and social stability remain strong. Despite political challenges, the UK’s prosperity remains resilient.

The United Kingdom scored 79.95, ranking 12th most prosperous in the world in 2023.
Its Living Conditions score of 94.16 remains among the highest of any non-top-10 nation.
Investment Environment came in at 81.49, reflecting the continued appeal of the UK as a major business destination.
Safety & Security scored 87.63, indicating a broadly stable and law-abiding society.
Education scored 84.81, consistent with the UK’s globally ranked universities and strong school system.
Personal Freedom scored 85.64, reflecting broad traditions of civil liberties and press freedom.
Healthcare scored 78.31, reflecting the NHS’s universal reach despite ongoing funding pressures.
Governance scored 80.63, slightly lower than some peers and reflecting some institutional strain from recent political volatility.

13. Canada — Score: 79.62 (Rank #13)

Canada scored 79.62, ranking 13th. Frequently regarded as a quiet achiever in global prosperity, Canada is a large, multicultural, resource-rich, and well-governed nation that consistently provides a high quality of life. By most indicators, it ranks among the best places to live in 2023.

Canada’s Safety & Security score is 87.92, and Governance is 82.34, showing a strong federal democracy. Its Social Capital score of 73.60 is higher than that of many countries of similar size, reflecting multiculturalism and civic participation. The Living Conditions score of 93.49 indicates that Canadians enjoy good housing, healthcare, clean cities, and ample green space.

It’s Economic Quality score is 65.34, which is low for a G7 country. This may be due to concerns about productivity, reliance on commodities, and housing affordability. Canada’s Education score of 84.19 and Healthcare score of 78.88 are strong, showing broad but not top-tier performance in these areas.

Canada ranked 13th most prosperous in the world in 2023, with a score of 79.62.
Its Social Capital score of 73.60 is among the highest outside of the Nordic countries and New Zealand.
Safety & Security came in at 87.92, reflecting Canada’s safe, law-abiding cities and communities.
Living Conditions scored 93.49, affirming a high everyday quality of life for Canadians.
Governance scored 82.34, reflecting functional federal institutions and democratic accountability.
Education scored 84.19, consistent with Canada’s internationally recognized public school and university systems.
Healthcare scored 78.88, reflecting broad coverage under the universal public health system.
The Investment Environment scored 80.68, indicating that Canada is an attractive, stable destination for business investment.

14. Austria — Score: 79.38 (Rank #14)

Austria scored 79.38, ranking 14th. As a small, landlocked country in Central Europe, this ranking reflects Austria’s governance and institutions. Despite a complex history, Austria is currently among the most comfortable, safe, and well-managed societies in the world.

Austria’s Safety & Security score is 90.94, placing it among the top 15 globally. This reflects low crime, strong public order, and high trust in institutions. Its Living Conditions score of 92.51 shows a high level of comfort and social support. Vienna, the capital, is often ranked among the world’s most livable cities, as the data support.

Austria’s Governance score is 81.19, and its Personal Freedom score is 85.99, indicating a strong parliamentary democracy with civil liberties. Its Natural Environment score of 72.97 is high, reflecting good management of the Alps and natural resources. Austria’s lower scores in Economic Quality (68.41) and Enterprise Conditions (73.26) suggest challenges in maintaining a dynamic economy in a regulated, consensus-driven society.

Austria scored 79.38, ranking 14th most prosperous in the world in 2023.
Its Safety & Security score of 90.94 places Austria among the 15 safest nations globally.
Living Conditions came in at 92.51, confirming Austria’s high everyday standard of living.
Personal Freedom scored 85.99, reflecting strong civil liberties and democratic traditions.
Governance scored 81.19, affirming Austria’s accountable and effective government institutions.
Natural Environment scored 72.97, reflecting Austria’s stewardship of the Alps and its natural landscapes.
Healthcare scored 80.23, consistent with Austria’s universal healthcare system and high medical quality.
Education scored 81.93, reflecting a strong dual vocational and academic education system.

15. Australia — Score: 79.36 (Rank #15)

Australia scored 79.36, ranking 15th, immediately following Austria. This high ranking demonstrates what can be achieved in a young democracy endowed with natural resources, geographic isolation, and an inclusive culture. Australia is the only other Southern Hemisphere country represented near the top of the index.

Australia’s Governance score is 82.81, higher than that of some European countries ranked above it. Its Social Capital score of 77.42 indicates a strong community culture, with high levels of volunteering and civic participation. Living Conditions scored 93.06, confirming that Australians enjoy good healthcare, clean air, plenty of space, and a high standard of living.

Australia’s Natural Environment score is 69.15, reflecting real environmental challenges like wildfires, coral reef loss, and water scarcity. Its Enterprise Conditions score of 70.82 and Economic Quality of 68.89 are lower than expected, showing concerns about productivity and reliance on commodities. However, Australia’s Education score of 85.99 is among the highest in the top 20, and its Safety & Security score of 87.91 indicates a stable, peaceful society.

Australia scored 79.36, ranking 15th most prosperous in the world in 2023.
Its Education score of 85.99 is among the highest in the top 20 countries in the index.
Social Capital scored 77.42, reflecting Australia’s strong culture of civic participation and community trust.
Governance scored 82.81, higher than several European nations and reflecting strong institutional quality.
Living Conditions came in at 93.06, affirming a high standard of living nationwide.
Safety & Security scored 87.91, indicating a broadly safe and peaceful society.
Healthcare scored 80.36, consistent with Australia’s universal Medicare system and strong health outcomes.
Personal Freedom scored 84.53, reflecting solid civil liberties and a culturally open society.

16. Japan — Score: 78.22 (Rank #16)

Japan scored 78.22, ranking 16th. Japan stands out among the top 20 countries because of its unique situation: 125 million people, few natural resources, recovery from several economic crises, and a major demographic challenge: an aging and shrinking population. Despite these challenges, Japan remains highly prosperous. It’s Safety & Security score is 92.78, one of the highest in the index. Japanese cities are known for being safe, clean, and orderly. Its Healthcare score of 86.50 is the highest among the top 20, reflecting a world-class medical system and excellent health outcomes. Japan also has one of the highest life expectancies in the world.

Japan’s Personal Freedom score is 79.14, lower than that of any other top-15 country. This is due to limited gender equality, strict social norms, concerns about press freedom, and a demanding work culture. Japan’s Social Capital score is 43.82, reflecting low civic engagement, low volunteerism, and a more insular society. Japan demonstrates that robust safety, health, and economic systems can coexist with lower levels of freedom and openness.

Japan scored 78.22, ranking 16th most prosperous in the world in 2023, the highest-ranked Asian nation.
Its Healthcare score of 86.50 is the highest among the top 20 countries globally.
Safety & Security came in at 92.78, one of the top five globally and reflecting Japan’s famously low crime rates.
Enterprise Conditions scored 83.10, reflecting Japan’s highly sophisticated business infrastructure.
Education scored 84.93, consistent with Japan’s globally respected academic standards and outcomes.
Personal Freedom scored only 79.14, reflecting significant constraints on civil liberties compared to peers.
Social Capital scored just 43.82, the lowest in the entire top 20 and reflecting limited civic engagement.
Living Conditions scored 92.86, affirming a high material standard of living for the Japanese population.

17. Singapore — Score: 78.21 (Rank #17)

Singapore scored 78.21, just 0.01 below Japan, ranking 17th. With a population of fewer than 6 million, Singapore’s economic ascent is remarkable. In 1965, it was a small, resource-poor island with minimal industry or infrastructure. Today, Singapore’s per capita income surpasses that of most Western European countries.

It’s Education score is 91.44, the highest in the top 20 and among the best in the entire index. This is due to strong national investment in education. Its Healthcare score of 86.89 is also the highest in the top 20, reflecting a universal and efficient system that uses both public and private providers. Market Access & Infrastructure scored 85.75, the highest in the index.

However, Singapore’s Personal Freedom score is just 48.63, the lowest in the top 20 and lower than some countries ranked much lower overall. Singapore restricts press freedom, limits political opposition, and has laws on speech and sexuality that differ from liberal democracies. Its Social Capital score of 64.68 indicates that trust is strong within ethnic groups but weaker across them. Singapore’s prosperity is high in both material and institutional terms but is constrained by political constraints.

Singapore scored 78.21, ranking 17th most prosperous in the world, the only city-state in the global top 20.
Its Education score of 91.44 is the highest of any country in the entire top 20 of the 2023 index.
Market Access & Infrastructure scored 85.75, the highest of any country in the entire 167-country ranking.
Healthcare scored 86.89, the second-highest in the top 20 after Japan, reflecting world-class medical outcomes.
Enterprise Conditions scored 83.23, among the world’s best, reflecting Singapore’s highly efficient business environment.
Economic Quality scored 80.10, higher than many European nations and reflecting Singapore’s elite per capita income.
Personal Freedom scored only 48.63, the lowest among the top 20 countries, reflecting significant political constraints.
Safety & Security came in at 92.05, among the world’s safest countries and consistent with Singapore’s near-zero violent crime rates.

18. Belgium — Score: 77.84 (Rank #18)

Belgium scored 77.84, ranking 18th. Recognized as the bureaucratic center of Europe and home to NATO and the EU Commission, Belgium’s ranking represents a substantial achievement. The country balances European integration with national identity and economic objectives, while navigating political complexity. Despite historical political challenges, Belgium’s robust institutions have contributed to sustained prosperity.

Belgium’s Personal Freedom score is 87.70, and its Living Conditions score is 92.78, indicating strong civil liberties and a high quality of life. Its Safety & Security score of 85.76 is solid, and the Investment Environment score of 81.12 highlights Belgium’s appeal as a base for European headquarters and international business. Brussels is both a political and a business center.

Belgium’s Social Capital score of 64.55 is one of the lower scores in the top 20, which may partly reflect the deep linguistic and cultural divide between the Flemish north and Walloon south. Social trust is harder to build across language lines, and Belgium is a country where those lines run deep. Its Governance score of 80.31 and Market Access & Infrastructure score of 76.63 round out a picture of a functional, well-connected country that manages its divisions better than its political theater might suggest.

Belgium scored 77.84, ranking 18th most prosperous in the world in 2023.
Its Personal Freedom score of 87.70 reflects strong civil liberties and democratic traditions.
Living Conditions came in at 92.78, affirming a high everyday quality of life for Belgian residents.
Investment Environment scored 81.12, reflecting Belgium’s appeal as a European business and headquarters location.
Safety & Security scored 85.76, indicating a broadly safe and stable society.
Education scored 84.79, consistent with Belgium’s strong university tradition and high graduation rates.
Governance scored 80.31, functional despite Belgium’s famously complex federal political structure.
Healthcare scored 80.60, reflecting Belgium’s universal health coverage and high-quality medical outcomes.

19. United States — Score: 77.44 (Rank #19)

The United States scored 77.44, ranking 19th, a placement that has prompted considerable discussion and debate. Despite being the world’s largest economy by nominal GDP, possessing significant military power, and serving as a leading cultural exporter, the United States ranks below countries such as Denmark, Belgium, Austria, New Zealand, and Iceland in overall prosperity. The data clearly delineate the domains in which the United States excels and those in which it underperforms.

The United States’ Enterprise Conditions score of 82.85 is the highest in the entire top 20 — a reflection of America’s extraordinary capacity for entrepreneurship, its deep venture capital ecosystem, its culture of risk-taking and reward. Its Market Access & Infrastructure score of 80.40 is strong, and its Economic Quality score of 72.34 places it well above many peers in terms of economic openness and dynamism. The U.S. economy remains, by many structural measures, the world’s most powerful engine of innovation and wealth generation.

However, the data reveal significant challenges. The United States’ Safety & Security score is 72.43, the lowest among the top 20 countries and lower than several nations ranked further down the list. Its Personal Freedom score of 78.85 is also among the lowest in the top 20, surpassed only by Japan and Singapore. The Healthcare score of 73.26, the lowest in the top 20, highlights persistent issues with access and affordability. These results underscore that economic power does not necessarily equate to broad-based human prosperity.

The United States scored 77.44, ranking 19th most prosperous in the world in 2023.
Its Enterprise Conditions score of 82.85 is the highest among the top 20 countries globally.
Safety & Security scored only 72.43, the lowest among the top 20 countries by a significant margin.
Personal Freedom scored 78.85, lower than every other country in the top 20 except Japan and Singapore.
Healthcare scored 73.26, the lowest in the top 20, reflecting persistent gaps in healthcare access and affordability.
Economic Quality scored 72.34, reflecting a powerful but unequal economic distribution.
Market Access & Infrastructure scored 80.40, reflecting the U.S.’s well-developed transportation and trade networks.
Education scored 83.15, affirming the quality and reach of U.S. higher education and research institutions.

Implications of the Prosperity Index Data

A review of the top 19 countries and thousands of data points reveals several notable patterns. The consistent dominance of Nordic countries at the top of the index is not coincidental. It reflects a substantive relationship between social trust, effective governance, personal freedom, and sustained human flourishing. Denmark, Sweden, Norway, and Finland have invested over generations in building institutions that effectively serve their populations, as evidenced by the prosperity data.

Furthermore, the inclusion of Singapore and Japan in the top 20, despite their distinct political systems, prompts consideration of whether high prosperity can coexist with low levels of freedom. The data indicate that while substantial prosperity is attainable, certain dimensions such as Personal Freedom and Social Capital remain constrained in these contexts. Notably, countries that perform strongly across all 12 pillars of the index are uniformly liberal democracies, underscoring the importance of political freedoms.

The United States’ 19th-place ranking should not be construed as a critique of its economic strength. Instead, it reflects political and social decisions concerning the allocation and utilization of national resources. Countries that consistently surpass the United States in measures of human prosperity have generally prioritized investments in social infrastructure, universal services, and public trust. The data elucidate the nature of these tradeoffs, which remain subject to democratic processes.

The accompanying infographic visually illustrates these patterns, highlighting the clustering of high scores, the geographic concentration of European nations, and notable outliers such as Japan and Singapore. Prosperity, as defined by this index, is both measurable and attainable. For countries willing to invest in robust institutional and social frameworks, achieving high levels of prosperity remains a realistic objective. This constitutes a central message conveyed by the data.

Here is a full list of the Countries with the Highest Prosperity:

Rank	Flag	Country	Average Score
1	🇩🇰	Denmark	84.55
2	🇸🇪	Sweden	83.67
3	🇳🇴	Norway	83.59
4	🇫🇮	Finland	83.47
5	🇨🇭	Switzerland	83.42
6	🇳🇱	Netherlands	82.32
7	🇱🇺	Luxembourg	81.83
8	🇮🇸	Iceland	81.02
9	🇩🇪	Germany	80.81
10	🇳🇿	New Zealand	80.47
11	🇮🇪	Ireland	80.31
12	🇬🇧	United Kingdom	79.95
13	🇨🇦	Canada	79.62
14	🇦🇹	Austria	79.38
15	🇦🇺	Australia	79.36
16	🇯🇵	Japan	78.22
17	🇸🇬	Singapore	78.21
18	🇧🇪	Belgium	77.84
19	🇺🇸	United States	77.44
20	🇹🇼	Taiwan	77.36
21	🇪🇪	Estonia	77.31
22	🇭🇰	Hong Kong	76.90
23	🇫🇷	France	76.73
24	🇪🇸	Spain	76.03
25	🇨🇿	Czech Republic	75.08
26	🇵🇹	Portugal	74.64
27	🇸🇮	Slovenia	74.54
28	🇲🇹	Malta	74.36
29	🇰🇷	South Korea	74.07
30	🇮🇹	Italy	73.03
31	🇱🇻	Latvia	72.99
32	🇱🇹	Lithuania	72.54
33	🇮🇱	Israel	72.25
34	🇨🇾	Cyprus	71.82
35	🇸🇰	Slovakia	71.15
36	🇨🇱	Chile	70.18
37	🇵🇱	Poland	70.15
38	🇺🇾	Uruguay	69.69
39	🇨🇷	Costa Rica	69.59
40	🇬🇷	Greece	68.48
41	🇭🇷	Croatia	68.24
42	🇭🇺	Hungary	66.88
43	🇲🇾	Malaysia	66.84
44	🇦🇪	United Arab Emirates	66.69
45	🇷🇴	Romania	66.40
46	🇶🇦	Qatar	66.24
47	🇲🇺	Mauritius	65.65
48	🇧🇬	Bulgaria	65.55
49	🇲🇪	Montenegro	65.01
50	🇵🇦	Panama	64.32
51	🇸🇨	Seychelles	63.65
52	🇷🇸	Serbia	62.75
53	🇬🇪	Georgia	62.28
54	🇨🇳	China	62.15
55	🇲🇰	North Macedonia	61.95
56	🇹🇹	Trinidad and Tobago	61.91
57	🇯🇲	Jamaica	61.39
58	🇦🇷	Argentina	61.38
59	🇵🇪	Peru	61.27
60	🇰🇼	Kuwait	60.93
61	🇦🇲	Armenia	60.92
62	🇧🇭	Bahrain	60.92
63	🇮🇩	Indonesia	60.88
64	🇹🇭	Thailand	60.79
65	🇦🇱	Albania	60.69
66	🇧🇷	Brazil	60.07
67	🇴🇲	Oman	59.85
68	🇩🇴	Dominican Republic	59.85
69	🇰🇿	Kazakhstan	59.53
70	🇲🇩	Moldova	59.44
71	🇲🇽	Mexico	59.30
72	🇧🇦	Bosnia and Herzegovina	59.11
73	🇻🇳	Vietnam	58.86
74	🇺🇦	Ukraine	58.84
75	🇿🇦	South Africa	58.67
76	🇵🇾	Paraguay	58.56
77	🇷🇺	Russia	58.50
78	🇧🇾	Belarus	58.40
79	🇸🇦	Saudi Arabia	58.35
80	🇨🇻	Cabo Verde	58.34
81	🇨🇴	Colombia	58.01
82	🇸🇷	Suriname	57.91
83	🇧🇼	Botswana	57.83
84	🇵🇭	Philippines	57.53
85	🇪🇨	Ecuador	57.42
86	🇯🇴	Jordan	57.14
87	🇸🇹	São Tomé and Príncipe	57.09
88	🇲🇳	Mongolia	57.07
89	🇬🇾	Guyana	56.93
90	🇳🇦	Namibia	56.38
91	🇱🇰	Sri Lanka	56.34
92	🇦🇿	Azerbaijan	56.26
93	🇧🇿	Belize	55.91
94	🇰🇬	Kyrgyzstan	55.75
95	🇹🇷	Turkey	55.50
96	🇲🇦	Morocco	55.19
97	🇸🇻	El Salvador	55.05
98	🇬🇭	Ghana	54.66
99	🇹🇳	Tunisia	54.46
100	🇺🇿	Uzbekistan	53.80
101	🇬🇹	Guatemala	53.73
102	🇸🇳	Senegal	53.68
103	🇮🇳	India	53.66
104	🇨🇺	Cuba	53.44
105	🇭🇳	Honduras	53.25
106	🇧🇴	Bolivia	53.13
107	🇹🇲	Turkmenistan	52.38
108	🇰🇪	Kenya	52.25
109	🇩🇿	Algeria	52.13
110	🇳🇵	Nepal	51.57
111	🇷🇼	Rwanda	51.56
112	🇱🇧	Lebanon	51.38
113	🇹🇯	Tajikistan	51.20
114	🇳🇮	Nicaragua	50.22
115	🇱🇦	Laos	50.18
116	🇬🇲	Gambia	50.10
117	🇹🇿	Tanzania	49.20
118	🇰🇭	Cambodia	49.19
119	🇬🇦	Gabon	48.84
120	🇨🇮	Côte d'Ivoire	48.59
121	🇪🇬	Egypt	48.57
122	🇩🇯	Djibouti	48.47
123	🇧🇯	Benin	48.22
124	🇧🇩	Bangladesh	47.87
125	🇲🇼	Malawi	47.83
126	🇮🇷	Iran	47.71
127	🇿🇲	Zambia	47.14
128	🇰🇲	Comoros	46.93
129	🇺🇬	Uganda	46.83
130	🇵🇬	Papua New Guinea	46.64
131	🇬🇶	Equatorial Guinea	46.59
132	🇱🇸	Lesotho	45.62
133	🇹🇬	Togo	45.52
134	🇸🇿	Swaziland	45.36
135	🇧🇫	Burkina Faso	45.12
136	🇵🇰	Pakistan	45.10
137	🇲🇬	Madagascar	44.94
138	🇱🇷	Liberia	44.79
139	🇿🇼	Zimbabwe	44.67
140	🇮🇶	Iraq	44.66
141	🇬🇳	Guinea	44.47
142	🇳🇬	Nigeria	44.00
143	🇲🇲	Myanmar	43.66
144	🇸🇱	Sierra Leone	43.62
145	🇻🇪	Venezuela	43.60
146	🇱🇾	Libya	43.46
147	🇨🇲	Cameroon	43.08
148	🇨🇬	Congo	42.82
149	🇬🇼	Guinea-Bissau	42.78
150	🇲🇿	Mozambique	42.70
151	🇲🇱	Mali	42.36
152	🇳🇪	Niger	42.26
153	🇪🇹	Ethiopia	41.87
154	🇲🇷	Mauritania	41.23
155	🇦🇴	Angola	40.55
156	🇭🇹	Haiti	39.82
157	🇧🇮	Burundi	38.20
158	🇸🇩	Sudan	36.97
159	🇸🇾	Syria	36.83
160	🇪🇷	Eritrea	36.02
161	🇨🇩	Democratic Republic of the Congo	35.74
162	🇹🇩	Chad	34.69
163	🇸🇴	Somalia	34.39
164	🇦🇫	Afghanistan	34.18
165	🇨🇫	Central African Republic	32.83
166	🇾🇪	Yemen	32.65
167	🇸🇸	South Sudan	30.40